San José, September 18, 2018
Local and social media report that last week’s demonstrations against the host government’s fiscal plan likely will continue this week throughout Costa Rica, and particularly in San Jose. Protesters may express their opposition by interrupting government services, creating traffic jams, and disrupting local commerce. This may occur with little or no warning.
The Costa Rican Ministry of Public Security has announced it will be taking steps to guarantee transit and fuel supplies, though intermittent gas shortages and cancellation of non-emergency medical appointments at public hospitals may occur. Emergency services and local airports are expected to remain operational. The Embassy cannot predict when demonstration activity will subside and recommends that all U.S. citizens in Costa Rica plan accordingly.
Actions to Take:
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Plan any travel within country to account for potential traffic delays
- Avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations
- Enroll with the U.S. Embassy in San Jose Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
Assistance:
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Costa Rica Country Specific Information
- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica, located at Calle 98 Vía 104, Pavas, San José, at +506 2519-2000, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The after-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +506 2519-2000 (ask to be transferred to the Duty Officer)
- Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
